SIFF 2009 Festival Job Postings
SIFF 2009 positions are seasonal; approximate dates of the contract are listed with each position description. The 2009 Seattle International Film Festival runs May 21-June 14.
Please send your resume and cover letter to siffjobs@siff.net. Be sure to state the position for which you are applying in the subject line of your email, as well as in your cover letter. We will begin scheduling first interviews the week of February 18 for positions starting in March. All other interviews will be scheduled in March. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE!
Development
Development Coordinator (January 15 – June 30, 2009)
This position reports to the Corporate Sponsorship Manager. Responsibilities include supporting three major functions, with other duties as assigned.
1. Community Partners:
The main function of this segment is the solicitation of small business and non-profits to contribute to SIFF Community Partners Program. The position will be asked to meet the fiscal goals for the CPP in 2009. Daily tasks will include: researching new accounts/partners; increasing support from returning partners; preparing presentation and solicitation materials; meeting with potential partners; attending Festival events; possibly speaking publicly at screenings to acknowledge partners; solicitation of catering and restaurant partners for events; and contract preparation.
2. Sponsorship Fulfillment:
The main function of this segment is the tracking of all sponsor benefits and fulfillment of those benefits. These include, but are not limited to: on-screen visibility; ad and logo placement; pre-film acknowledgement; sponsor promotional materials; VIP gift bag solicitation; event coordination for third-party receptions; and sponsor thank you and wrap ups.
3. Individual Giving:
Donation tracking and thank you letters.
Essential skills:
Knowledge of FileMaker or similar database
Previous development experience
Relationship building
Microsoft Office Suite
Preferable: Own a car
Position may convert to year-round post-Festival, depending on needs of SIFF, and interest of the seasonal employee.
Marketing and Communications
Marketing and Outreach Assistants (March 9 - June 26, 2009)
(Two positions open)
The Marketing and Outreach Assistant is responsible for assisting the Marketing Coordinator in implementing SIFF’s overall communications and marketing plan—focusing specifically on advertising, promotions, and community outreach—to build awareness about SIFF and the Festival films within the community, and to increase attendance and ticket sales. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Marketing
• Placement of ads according to negotiated schedule
• Implement Seattle Times advertising campaign
• Develop and implement additional promotional opportunities to gain additional exposure through contests, creative promotions, etc.
• Coordinate placement of SIFF 35mm film trailer at movie theaters in the greater Seattle area
• Organize and oversee distribution of SIFF posters, Times Guides, flyers, film promotional materials, and other print collateral
• Organize and oversee distribution of film posters to appropriate venues in timely manner
• Distribute promotional materials
Community Outreach
• Target specific special-interest groups and ethnic communities, promoting specific films and programs of interest
• Create programs to reach new audiences
• Create a SIFF presence at community gatherings
• Develop relationships with local businesses and community organizations
• Coordinate ticket giveaways to social service and community groups that encourage cultural participation while also driving ticket sales
The successful applicant will have a bachelor’s degree in the liberal arts or the equivalent work experience. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to take initiative, show good judgment, and manage projects from beginning to end. They must be able to demonstrate (a) excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills; (b) exceptional ability to manage details, multitask in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines; and (c) work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Understanding of basic layout and graphic design principles a plus.
Senior Publicist (March 2 to June 26)
Under the direction of the Director of Marketing and Communications, the Senior Publicist will mange all aspects of press and publicity, working closely with the local and national media, to implement a strong and favorable publicity campaign for SIFF and its films. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Manage workflow of the Publicists
• Updating local and national media lists
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with press corps
• Coordinate press accreditation process
• Write and issue media correspondence, including press releases and media alerts
• Write and oversee the generation of SIFF media kit
• Coordinate all media outreach, including print, TV, radio, and viral
• Actively pitch films to media and secure editorial placement
• Organize press launch and press screenings
• Liaising with outside national publicists to secure national media coverage
• Coordinate with press clippings service, prepare SIFF press book
• Organize ticket requests and event invitations for press
The successful applicant will have a bachelor’s degree in communications or the equivalent work experience in media, in addition to two-to-four years of experience in public relations or other communications work. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to take initiative, show good judgment, and manage projects from beginning to end. They must be able to demonstrate (a) excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills; (b) exceptional ability to manage details, multitask in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines; and (c) work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
References should speak to the applicant’s sense of camaraderie, integrity, professionalism, responsibility, and flexibility.
Publicist (March 9 to June 26)
The Publicist works with the Senior Publicist to implement a strong and favorable publicity campaign for SIFF and its films. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Research and develop new media contacts, update database and press lists
• Write and issue media correspondence, including press releases and media alerts
• Disseminate information to media
• Identify and pitch media opportunities
• Arrange space and help facilitate interviews
• Facilitate at screenings and events with photographers and guests
• Identify photo opportunities and liaise with photographers (or photo editor)
• Track, compile, and record all press
• Generate press notes and/or media kits for press screenings
• Manage press clippings
• Manage DVD screener library, including duplication, check-out, and tracking
The successful applicant will have a bachelor’s degree in communications or the equivalent work experience in media, preferably with professional experience in public relations or other communications work. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to take initiative, show good judgment, and manage projects from beginning to end. They must be able to demonstrate (a) excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills; (b) exceptional ability to manage details, multitask in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines; and (c) work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
References should speak to the applicant’s sense of camaraderie, integrity, professionalism, responsibility, and flexibility.
Publicity Office Manager (April 1 to June 30)
Under the direction of the Senior Publicist, the Publicity Office Manager is responsible for the day-to-day administrative duties and overall functionality of the Publicity Department (and Press Office/Suite at the W Hotel). Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Greet and check-in filmmaking guests
• Arrange space and help facilitate interviews
• Generate press notes and/or media kits for press screenings
• Manage press clippings
• Oversee Publicity Interns
• Manage DVD screener library, including duplication, check-out, and tracking
• General administrative/office duties as assigned (answering phones, photocopying press kits, etc.)
The successful applicant will have at least four years work experience in and administrative role, preferably with experience in media, public relations, or other communications work. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to take initiative, show good judgment, and manage projects from beginning to end. They must be able to demonstrate (a) excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills; (b) exceptional ability to manage details, multitask in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines; and (c) work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
References should speak to the applicant’s sense of camaraderie, integrity, professionalism, responsibility, and flexibility.
Publications Coordinator (March 9 to May 15)
Under the direction of the Editor, the Publications Coordinator works with the editor and assistant editor, programmers, art director, interns, and outside writers in trafficking blurbs and information for the Festival catalog and Seattle Times Guide.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Oversee and manage the process for Seattle Times Guide, SIFF Program Guide (catalog), and other related publications
• Coordinate with other departments to gather information and ensure relevant information is collected for publication
• Coordinate with outside vendors including printers, the Seattle Times, Encore, etc. in relation to the production of Festival publications
• Ensure all deadlines are met
• Manage and ensure all vendor deadlines are met
Publications Editor (March 9 to May 15)
Under the direction of the Director of Marketing and Communications, the Editor works with programmers, interns, and outside writers in writing, editing, and proofreading content for Festival catalog and other publications. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Write, edit, and proofread content for SIFF publications
• Hire and make assignments for freelance writers (staying within budget)
• Supervise and manage workflow of Assistant Editor, freelance writers, volunteers, and interns, including issuing writing assignments.
• Select, train, and manage interns and outside writers, staying within the designated budget for all hired freelancers.
• Meet tight deadlines on a regular basis.
• Utilize the FileMaker Pro database to track blurbs, edit content, and organize assigned writers
• Create and implement a production schedule in coordination with the Graphic Designer and Publications Manager
• Organize proofing process, ensuring all protocols and approvals are met
• Input and change content in database both initially and as proofs come in
The successful applicant will have a bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications, preferably with professional experience in copywriting, editing, or other communications work. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to take initiative, show good judgment, and manage projects from beginning to end. They must be able to demonstrate (a) excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills; (b) exceptional ability to manage details, multitask in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines; and (c) work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Publications Assistant Editor (March 16 to May 15)
Under the direction of the Editor, the Assistant Editor works with programmers, interns, and outside writers in writing, editing, and proofreading content for Festival catalog and other publications. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Write, edit, and proofread content as assigned
• Collaborate with and assist Editor in managing the workflow of freelance writers, volunteers, and interns
• Meet tight deadlines on a regular basis
• Utilize the FileMaker Pro database to track blurbs, edit content, and organize assigned writers (including programmers)
• Help develop tracking system and update records
• Input changes to content after proofing
The successful applicant will have a bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications, preferably with professional experience in copywriting, editing, or other communications work. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to take initiative, show good judgment, and manage projects from beginning to end. They must be able to demonstrate (a) excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills; (b) exceptional ability to manage details, multitask in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines; and (c) work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Guest Relations
Guest Relations Manager (March 9 to June 30)
The Guest Relations Manager coordinates all aspects of the Festival’s visiting delegates, including invitations, travel, and transportation. The Guest Relations Manager oversees the Guest Relations department and its staff. Coordinate with other departments concerning guest itineraries. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Overseeing the Guest Relations Staff, including the Guest Relations Coordinator, Travel Coordinator, and Guest Suite Coordinator
• Hiring support staff, including interns
• Managing the guest section of the database
• Managing the Guest Relations budget for SIFF, apprising the Artistic Director and Managing Director of actual and projected expenses
• Inviting all guests of the Festival
• Overseeing the travel arrangements and ground transportation for all out-of-town guests
• Overseeing hospitality at the Guest Suite during the Festival
• Creating invitation lists and inviting all guests attending filmmakers dinners
• Inviting guests to all special events
• Creating invitation lists and inviting guests to special event
Guest Coordinator (March 23 to June 30)
The Guest Coordinator assists the Guest Relations Manager in all aspects of the department. The Guest Coordinator also works with Travel Coordinator to organize guest transportation to and from airport, screenings, and other events. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Working with the guest section of the database
• Arranging ground transportation for out-of-town guests
• Handling the pass and accreditation needs of guests and industry attendees
• Coordinating all aspects of the Festival cars, including insurance, car delivery, maintenance, and parking
• Overseeing the pass and accreditation needs of all guests and industry attendees
• Overseeing all aspects of the Festival cars, including insurance, car delivery, maintenance, and parking
Guest Relations Travel Coordinator (March 23 to June 30)
Under the direction of the Guest Relations Manager, the Guest Relations Travel Coordinator schedules travel and lodging for approximately 200 Festival guests from around the world. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Working with the guest section of the database
• Arranging travel and ground transportation for out-of-town guests
• Interfaces with GR Coord regarding ground transportation
• Working with Suite/Transportation coordinator for local transportation
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• Working with Guest Relations Coordinator to decipher interpretation needs
Guest Suite Coordinator (May 4 to June 30)
Under the direction of the Guest Relations Manager, the Guest Suite Coordinator is responsible for all details relating to the guest suite.
• Room set-up and hospitality including catering, gift bags, etc.
• Overseeing Guest Suite volunteers
• Check-in and registration of all guests
• Creating guest passes
• Arranging comp tickets
• Performing general concierge duties
Platinum Plus Concierge (April 29 to June 26)
The Platinum Plus Concierge is an outgoing individual who thrives on interacting with SIFF members, donors, and audiences. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Acts as liaison to Platinum Plus passholders
• Takes reservations and works directly with Festival venue managers to execute on a daily basis during SIFF (May 22 – June 15)
• Responsible for designing systems needed to best perform duties in weeks prior to Festival opening
• Assists with premium member relations
• General ambassador duties as representative of SIFF
• Supports team and assists with special events as needed
Platinum Plus Passholder Reservations Assistant (May 18 to June 15)
The Platinum Plus Passholder Reservations Assistant is detail-oriented and dedicated to premium customer service. This support position is crucial to the success of the Platinum Plus program. The Platinum Plus Passholder Reservations Assistant’s primary responsibility is to assist the Platinum Plus Concierge with daily reservation data entry during SIFF (May 22 – June 15). Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Data Entry
• Other support duties as necessary
Remote or offsite work possible.
Festival Operations
Festival Events Coordinator (March 1 to June 19)
The Special Events Coordinator is a detail-oriented and flexible team member. This support position is crucial to the success of more than 30 Festival events. The Special Events Coordinator’s primary responsibility is to assist the SIFF Events Manager with all aspects of event planning and implementation. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Manage event invitations and guest lists
• Update database daily with current event information
• Attend events and oversee check-in process
• Work with development team and sponsors to secure and assemble gift bag items for VIP Opening Night event
• Manage reserved seating assignments for Opening Night film and other select events
• Cultivate new and existing restaurant and catering partnerships
• Work with volunteer department to coordinate volunteers
Special requirements: Must have valid drivers license and car.
Production Manager (April 6 to June 22)
The Production Manager acts as a liaison between the programming team and the Festival operations team. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Planning, set up, execution, and break down of Festival special presentations including acquiring and setting up audio and visual equipment
• Coordinate equipment needs and production of Festival panels, discussions, and other Festival Forum events
• Coordination of rehearsal and production schedules
• Responsible for hiring and oversight of technical staff for special events
Stage Management experience is preferred.
Print Traffic Coordinator (April 6 to June 29)
The Print Traffic Coordinator is responsible for the coordination of shipping film prints and tapes to and from SIFF office and its various venues in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
Must have excellent communication skills and proficiency in Excel and MSWord.
Shipping experience is preferred.
Print Traffic Assistant Coordinator (April 6 to June 29)
Under the direction of the Print Traffic Coordinator, the Print Traffic Assistant Coordinator is responsible for the coordination of shipping film prints and tapes to and from SIFF office and its various venues in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
Must have excellent communication skills and proficiency in Excel and MSWord.
Shipping experience is preferred.
Drivers/Loaders (April 29 to June 26)
The Drivers/Loaders are responsible for delivery and pick-up at all Festival venues and offices. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Pick-up and delivery at Festival venues and offices
• Deliveries to special events, forums, etc.
• Load-in and load-out of theater venues pre- and post-Festival
• Keeping route, delivery and mileage logs
• Assists in the transportation of guest to special events
Position includes heavy lifting.
Box Office Manager (March 30 to June 28)
The Box Office Manager is responsible for all aspects of ticket sales and management of box office staff. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Oversight of paid and volunteer ticket sales staff
• Coordination of box office and merchandise sales
• Management of online ticketing, will-call, and reporting
• Weekly reporting of payroll for box office staff
• Tracking and reporting of volunteer hours
Box Office Assistant (March 30 to June 28)
The Box Office Assistant supports the Box Office Manager in all aspects of ticket sales and management of box office staff. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Oversight of paid and volunteer ticket sales staff
• Coordination of box office and merchandise sales
• Management of online ticketing, will-call, and reporting
• Weekly reporting of payroll for box office staff
• Tracking and reporting of volunteer hours
• Other duties as assigned
Box Office Staff (April 30 to June 17)
Many box office ticket sales positions are available. If you are interested, please send in a cover letter and resume.
Venue Management
Theater Operations Coordinator (April 6 to June 28)
The Theater Operations Coordinator assists the Theatre Operations Manager in all aspects of venue management. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Coordinating Festival venues including hiring, scheduling, and supervision of theater operations staff (both paid and volunteer)
• Liaising with all Festival departments concerning venue operations
• Oversight of venue box office and merchandise sales and reporting
• Coordinating the organization and creation of venues guides and daily screening and audit reports
• Collaborating with information services on the daily reporting of attendance and balloting
Previous theater management is preferred.
Theater Managers (May 18 to June 21)
The Theater Manager works under the direction of the Theater Operations Coordinator. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Overseeing the front-of-house volunteer staff
• Working crowd control
• Ticket taking
• Liaising with year-round venue management and Theater Operations Coordinator, maximizing seating and ensuring shows begin on time
• Coordinating individual venue box office and merchandise sales
• Ensuring a positive screening experience for patrons
Previous theater management is preferred.
Assistant Theater Managers (May 18 to June 21)
The Assistant Theater Manager works under the direction of the Theater Manager. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Overseeing inside-of-house volunteer staff
• Overseeing reserved seating for guest and patrons
• Serving as liaison with year-round venue management and projectionist
• Facilitating seating and clearing of houses
• Handles staging of pre-show announcements and Q&A sessions
• Ensuring a positive screening experience for patrons and guest
Previous theater management experience and good public speaking skills preferred.
Administration and Finance
Assistant Volunteer Coordinator (April 1 to June 30)
Under the direction of the Volunteer Coordinator, the Assistant Volunteer Coordinator is responsible for volunteer recruitment, orientation, and scheduling volunteers for all departments during the Festival. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Acting as clearing house for volunteer needs for all departments
• Scheduling all of the volunteer ushering, box office and will call shifts for the festival
• Updating and advising volunteers throughout the festival
• Keeping all volunteer records in database
• Coordinating the distribution and redemption of movie vouchers
• Coordinating the volunteer meeting at the beginning of the festival
• Coordinating the volunteer party at the end of the festival
• Coordinating the lead usher meeting
• Coordinating five usher training sessions
Familiarity with Excel, Word, File Make Pro and Shiftboard is appreciated. Ease with public speaking, flexible hours, willingness to do a lot of data entry, good writing and organizational skills, respect for people from all walks of life, and the ability to remain calm during stressful situations is preferred.
Administrative Assistant (March 30 to July 10)
The Administrative Assistant supports the Volunteer Coordinator/Office Manager in running the SIFF office. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Opening and closing tasks associated with SIFF office
• Answering and directing incoming telephone calls
• Providing quality customer service to visiting guests in the office
• Maintaining inventory and ordering of supplies
• Processing daily sales and batches
• Assisting the Volunteer Coordinator/Office Manager with special projects as needed
Must have excellent communication skills, the ability to maintain confidentiality with information, and proficiency in Excel and MSWord.
Bookkeeping Assistant (March 23 to June 26)
The Bookkeeping Assistant reports to the Financial Administrator and is an essential part of day-to-day Festival finances. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Assists the Financial Administrator with entering cash receipts, accounts payable, disbursements into accounting system, and other duties as assigned
• Couriers monies from box offices and venues to bank, verifies deposit amounts
Applicant must be able to work some evenings and weekends, willing to be bonded, and have a valid WA State driver's license. Applicant must also have a working knowledge of QuickBooks, and an understanding of accrual accounting and generally accepted accounting principles. Understanding of not-for-profit accounting preferred, but not required.
